Peter Obi has raised concerns over the Benue State Government’s conduct regarding his intended visit to the state, describing it as disappointing and politically motivated.
Sharing his thoughts on X, the former presidential aspirant expressed displeasure at what he sees as an obstruction of his goodwill tour, which included visits to IDP camps and medical institutions.
“Ordinarily, I would not have commented on this issue, as I have endured far worse situations in my political life since I declared for the presidency… The unfolding events demand that I have to start speaking out now,” he stated.
He mentioned that the trip, which was meant to cover Plateau on April 13 and Benue on April 14, included courtesy visits to governors as well as humanitarian outreach.
While his visit to Plateau was warmly received, Obi struggled to get in touch with the Benue Governor. “I am not entirely sure that the state Governor… is aware of this situation… I am compelled to use this available platform to ensure my message is conveyed,” he said.
He recounted making several efforts to contact the governor, including through his ADC. Though the aide assured him the governor would return the call, Obi said he only received a belated text days later, which raised red flags.
Still, he decided to move forward. “Because my visit to the governor was just for courtesy and respect, I decided to proceed with my trip to Makurdi.”
While on the road, Obi said his security team intercepted a press release, allegedly from the Benue Government, which discouraged the visit. “Curiously while I was still talking with my security team on the issue, the Governor’s ADC sent the statement directly to me,” he noted.
He stressed that his visit was in line with his longstanding commitment to social causes. “The purpose of this journey is to support good causes in areas of critical development: health and health education, education and caring for our people in need…”
Recalling past efforts, he said: “Everyone knew then how I had to get permission from the then President, President Goodluck Jonathan, that I needed to visit Haiti during the earthquake.”
His planned stops included a bishop-initiated school project in Gboko, a nursing college, and an IDP camp. He wrapped up with a message of hope and unity: “May God help us… and we all should live for the common good… A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO”